17 Fastest-Growing States for Tech Jobs

Michigan

A rebounding economy helped Michigan make the list at no. 4 with an increase of 4.47 percent during the first half of 2015.

For years now, the tech industry has seen unemployment rates lower than the national average. Given the bullish nature of the field, many states are positioning themselves so that they can attract business and cash in on this lucrative market. That being the case, while it's home to Silicon Valley's legion of startups and well-establish tech giants, California was still only 10th on a list of fastest-growing states for tech jobs over the last six months.

Surprisingly, Minnesota saw the biggest percentage increase in tech job growth, at 8.36 percent. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Minnesota's tech workforce has increased by 37,600 workers so far this year.

Dice.com observes:

"On the flipside, Pennsylvania, Washington, North Carolina and Alabama actually saw their tech workforce decline – by 0.61 percent, 0.63 percent, 2.36 percent, and 3.52 percent, respectively – during the first half of 2015. The dip in North Carolina's numbers is especially surprising, as the state has positioned Raleigh as an up-and-coming tech hub. But if history has shown anything, it's that tech employment in a particular state can just as quickly spring back.

Overall, the unemployment rate for tech professionals averaged 2.1 percent in the second quarter, down a bit from 2.3 percent in the first quarter. That's good news for tech pros, no matter which state they live in; lower unemployment can drive employers to offer better salaries and perks in order to attract and retain top talent."

This slideshow features the 17 fastest-growing states for tech jobs as identified by Dice.com.